Polyenecarboxylic acids, esters and process of making same



om art 3,014,052 Patented Dec. 19, 1961 United States Patent ice 3 14 052 wherein v POLYENECARBOXYLIC ACIDS, ESTERS AND h represents an integer from 0 t0 3 d PROCESS 0 MAKING SAME k represents an integer from 0 to 1, ittzaisttntsfsrratnintestate: 5 .With 111g 0 car a oxyrnet y ene-triary -pr osp orane, a-carzerland asslgnors to Hofimann La Roche Nufley balkoxyethylidene triaryl-phosphorane, 3-carbalkoXy-2- NJ. a cor oration of New Jerse p y buten l ylidene triaryl-phosphorane, 5-carbalkoxy-3- No Drawing. Filed Nov. 24, 1958, Ser. No. 775,694 Claims priority, application Switzerland Nov. 27, 1957 hyl -p 1 n -y y -p sph r ne,

19 Claims. (Cl. 260-4103) 1 carbalkoxy l-methyl-2,4-hexadicn-l-ylidene-triaryl-phosphorane and 7 carbalkoxy 3-methyl-2,4,6-octatrien-lylidene-triaryl-phosphorane, and decomposing, eg by heating, the adduct formed as a product of the condensation reaction. The ester thus formed may be converted to the acid by saponification.

The phosphoranes are derived from the corresponding invention fall into two subgroups. One subgroup contriaryl Phosphonium halides splitting out hydl'qgen tains a conjugated system of carbon to carbon multiple helide- Thus the phospheranes enumerated above are bonds, all of which are double bonds. These compounds d riv d fr m Carbalkoxymethyl-triaryl-phosphoniuin halmey be represented by the structural formula This invention relates to polyenecarboxylic acids and esters and to a method for synthesizing such compounds. More particularly, the p-olyene carboxylic acids and esters of this invention are novel acids and esters having a carotenoid structure.

The novel polyenecarboxylic acids and esters of this H: V wherein carbalkoxy 2 buten-l-yl-triaryl-phosphonium halide, 5- carbalkoxy 3 methyl-2,4-pentadien-l-yl-triaryl-phospho- R represents hydrogen or alkyl, a represents an integer from 0 to 2 and t 12 represents an integer from 0 to l, the

sum of a and b being 1 or 2. The second subgroup contains a conjugated system of carbon to carbon multiple bonds, all of which are double bonds except one which is a triple bond. These compounds may be represented by the structural formula CH3 /CH:

nium halide, 5 carbalkoxy 1-methyl-2,4-hexadien-l-yltriaryl-phosphonium halide and 7-carbalkoxy-3-methyl- 2,4,6-octatrien-l-yl-triaryl-phosphonium halide, respectively.

It is generally advantageous to form the phosphorane in situ and to add the aldehyde directly to the reaction mixture in which the desired phosphorane was produced.

mo (Lona wherein R represents hydrogen or alkyl,

Consequently, a preferred method of operating the process of this invention comprises treating a triaryl-phosphonium 8 represents an integer f Q to 3 d halide so as to remove halogen halide, as described below at represents an integer from 0 to 1, the in greater, detail, and reacting an aldehyde of the class sum of c and a. being l'to 3. described with the product.

A method of synthesizing compounds of the type illus- The alkyl groups represfmted by R a11d 1 in fflfmlllfle trated above is also a feature of this invention. In its I d II fif respe y, are Stfalght chill and broad aspects, this method comprises condensing an --branched chain aliphatic hydrocarbon groups such as aldehyde having the Formula III or IV below methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, amyl,

CH3 /CH3 (III) wherein hexyl, cetyl, lauryl, octadecyl and the like, preferably up f represents an integer f o t 3 d to about 18 carbon atoms. Lower alkyl groups such as g represents an integer from 0 to 1, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, amyl,

C32 /CH2 0 CH; CH1 CH3 CH3 (IV) 0 H2 20 ide, u-carbalkoxyethyl-triaryl-phosphoniurn halide, 3-'

etc. are most preferred. The aryl groups in the triarylphosphoranes listed above include such radicals as phenyl, lower alkylphenyl, wherein the lower alkyl group is, for xample, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl and the like, and lower alkoxyphenyl, wherein the lower alkoxy group is, for example, methoxy, ethoxy, pr-opoxy, isopropoxy and the like. Phenyl is the preferred aryl group. The term carbalkoxy in the triaryl-phosphoranes refers to the radicalwherein R has the same significance as R and R (excepting hydrogen) as illustrated above. The halides are chloride, bromide, iodide and fluoride.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a triaryl-phosphonium halide represented by the formula X represents a halogen atom, n represents an integer from to 3, R represents hydrogen and, if n represents 0, R represents hydrogen or methyl, and R represents alternately, beginning with methyl, methyl or hydrogen, is converted to the corresponding phosphorane, the latter is condensed with an aldehyde having the Formula VI or VII below wherein, in each of Formulae VI and VII, R represents alternately, beginning with methyl, methyl or hydrogen and m, if R in Formula V represents methyl, represents 2, 4 or 6, and if R in Formula V represents hydrogen, m represents 1, 3 or 5, the sum of n and m not exceeding 6,

and the adduct formed is split up, preferably by warming. The ester thus obtained may be converted to the corresponding acid by saponification. If the ester obtained contains a triple bond, it may be selectively reduced by catalytic hydrogenation to a double bond and the hydrogenation product isomerized. It will be appreciated that the preferred area of applicants invention relates to compounds having the carotenoid structure.

The condensation of the triaryl-phosphorane with the aldehyde is advantageously effected in an inert solvent such as ether, petroleum ether, benzene, methylene chloride, dioxane, tetrahydrofuran and the like. Methylene chloride is preferred. Equimolecular proportions of the two reactants or an excess of the phosphorane are used. The reaction takes place upon admixing the reactants at room temperature. Preferably, air is displaced by an inert gas such as nitrogen.

The condensation product of the reaction between the triarylphosphorane and the aldehyde gradually decomposes at room temperature into the desired polyenecarboxylic acid ester and the triarylphosphine oxide corresponding to the phosphorane. Heating accelerates the decomposition. Preferably decomposition of the adduct is eflected by refluxing the reaction mixture for several hours.

The esters obtained as described above may be converted to the corresponding acid by saponification, with a base, e.g. with alkali metal hydroxide. Preferably this is effected by dissolving the ester in an inert organic solvent, ether, for example, and treating it with an alcoholic solution of alkali metal hydroxide, methanolic sodium hydroxide solution, for example, at room temperature in an inert atmosphere, e.g. under nitrogen.

If an aldehyde of Formula IV or Formula VII is used to prepare the ester, the product also contains a triple bond. This triple bond may be selectively hydrogenated to a double bond, if desired, by suspending the ester in an inert organic solvent such as ethyl acetate, toluene, petroleum ether, etc. and hydrogenating under normal conditions in the presence of a selective hydrogenation catalyst, for example, a lead-palladium catalyst in the present of quinoline [Helv. Chim. Acta 35, 446 (1952)].

Hydrogenation of a compound containing a triple bond generally results in a polyene compound having the cisconfiguration about the carbon atoms formerly joined by the triple bond. This cis-compound may be converted to the corresponding all-trans compound by isomerization, for example, by heating at a temperature up to about reflux temperature. The cis-compounds and alltranscompounds are all within the scope of this invention.

The triaryl-phosphoninm halides may be produced by condensing the appropriate halogenated ester, e.g. ahaloacetic acid alkyl ester, a-halopropionic acid alkyl ester, 'y-halotiglic acid alkyl ester, with a triaryl-phosphine, e.g. triphenyl-phosphine, in an inert solvent such as benzene.

The conversion of the triaryl-phosphonium halide to the triaryl-phosphorane by splitting out hydrogen halide may be effected by treating the former with a rnetallo organic compound, for example, phenyl lithium or butyl lithium, or with an alkali metal alcoholate, for example, sodium methylate. Preferably the dehydrohalogenation is carried out in an inert organic solvent such as ether, alcohol or especially methylene chloride with the exclusion of oxygen.

Alternatively, the triaryl-phosphonium halide may be treated with aqueous alkali as disclosed in copending application Serial No. 741,990, filed June 16, 1958, by M. Gerecke et al. now Patent No. 2,912,467.

The aldehydes of Formula IV may be produced according to the method described in copending application Serial No. 767,278, filed October 15, 1958, by O. Isler et al., now abandoned and application Serial No. 767,272, filed October 15, 1958 by O. Isler et al., now Patent No. 2,970,174. The aldehydes of Formula III may be produced according to the method described in copending application Serial No. 767,271, filed October 15, 1958, now abandoned by O. lsler et al. and application Serial No. 767,272, filed October 15, 1958, by O. Isler et al., now Patent No. 2,970,174.

The compounds of this invention are stable yellow, red or violet colored compounds which are useful as coloring agents for foodstuffs. They are also useful as additives to poultry feeds for heightening the color of egg yolk, skin, shank, meat and fatty tissue. The compounds having no triple bond also have vitamin A activity. The following examples are illustrative of the invention. All temperatures are stated in degrees centigrade.

Example 1 minutes, a solution of 44.6 g. 2,7,11-trimethyl-13-(2,6,6- trimethyl-l-cyclohexen-l-yl)-2,6,8,10,12 tridecapentaen- 4-yn-l-al in 300 ml. of methylene chloride were dropped in over a period of 5 minutes. The mixture was refluxed for 5 hours. The mixture was then filtered. The methylene chloride solution was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and then filtered through a column containing 200 g. of aluminum oxide (activity state I deactivated with 4% water). The solution was concentrated and then methanol was slowly added until crystallization began. 4,9,13-trimethy1-15-(2,6,6-trimethy1-l-cyclohexen- 1 yl) 2,4,8,10,12,14 pentadecahexaen-6-yn-l-oic acid methyl ester was obtained in the form of orange crystals, M.P. 114-116; absorption maximum at 407 mu; E =l850 (in petroleum ether).

10 g. of 4,9,l3-trimethyl-l5-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen 1 yl)-2,4,8,10,12,14-pentadecahexaen-6-yn-l-oic acid methyl ester were suspended in 100 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 80-105) with l g. of lead poisoned palladium-calcium carbonate catalyst and 0.3 ml. of quinoline and agitated in a hydrogen atmosphere at 20 until 900 ml. of hydrogen were absorbed. The catalyst was filtered oil and the filtrate was concentrated under high vacuum. The residue was agitated with 50 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 40-45"). The product, 6,7-mono-ois-4,9,13-trimethyl 15 (2,6,6 trimethyl-lcyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,8,10,12,14 pentadecaheptaen-loic acid methyl ester, was obtained by filtration as a fine crystalline powder, M.P. 103-105 absorption maxima at 305 and 424 mu; E =790 and 1710 (in petroleum ether).

7.5 g. of the cis-compound obtained above in 40 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 80-105 were refluxed for 8 hours in a carbon dioxide atmosphere and then cooled to and the solvent was filtered ed. The product, all-trans-4,9,13-trimethyl-15-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l-cyclohexen-l-yl)-2,4,6,8,10,l2,l4-pentadecaheptaen-l-oic acid methyl ester, was obtained in the form of orange-red crystals, M.P. 129-130"; absorption maximum at 426 mu; E =2355 with a shoulder at 445 me (in petroleum ether).

1 g. of the ester obtained above was saponified by stirring with 200 ml. of a 10% methanolic potassium hydroxide solution and 200 ml. of ether in a nitrogen atmosphere at 20 for 2 days. The mixture was then diluted with water and extracted with ether. The aqueous solution was acidified with dilute hydrochloric acid and the product was filtered off. The all-trans-4,9,13-trimethyll-(2,6,6-trimethyl 1 cyclohexen-l-yl)-2,4,6,8,10,l2,14- pentadecaheptaen-l-oic acid was recrystallized from benzene, M.P. 186-187; UV. absorption maximum at 430 mu; E =2235 (in petroleum ether).

Example 2 Dilute sodium hydroxide solution was dropped into 70 g. of triphenyl-carbomethoxymethyl-phosphonium bromide in 1500 ml. of cold water with stirring until alkaline to phenolphthalein. The precipitate was filtered off, dried and recrystallized from ethyl acetate-petroleum ether. The colorless prisms of carbomethoxymethylene-triphenylphosphorane melted at 162-l'63.

-A solution of 44.6 g. of 2,7,1l-trimethyl-l3-(2,=6,6-trimethyl 1 cyclohexen-l-yl)-2,6,8,10,12-tridecapentaen-4- yn-l-al in 300 ml. of ethylene chloride were added over a period of 5 minutes with stirring to 53 g. of carbomethoxymethylene-triphenylphosphorane in 300 ml. of dry methylene chloride in a nitrogen atmosphere. The mixture was worked up as described in Example 1 to obtain 4,9,l3-trimethyl-15-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l-cyclohexen- 1-y1)-2,4,8,10,12,14-pentadecahexaen '6 yn 1 oic acid methyl ester'in the form of orange-red crystals, M.P. 114-116".

Example 3 '52 ml. of 2 N sodium methylate in methanol solution were added to 54 g. of triphenyl-(a-carbomethoxyethyl)- phosphonium bromide in 300 ml; of dry methylene chloride in a nitrogen atmosphere with stirring. After 30 minutes, 19.6 g. of 4,9,l3-trimethyl-15-(2,6,6-trimethyl-.1- cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,8,10,12,14 pentadecahexaen-6-ynl-al in 200 ml. of methylene chloridewere added over a period of 5 minutes and the mixture was then refluxed for 6 hours. The mixture was filtered and the methylene chloride solution was worked up as described in Example 1. The product, 2,6,11,15-tetramethyl-l7(2,6,6- trimethyl-l-cyclohexen 1 yl) 2,45,10,12,l4,16-heptadecaheptaen-S-yn-l-oic acid methyl ester, was obtained in the form of orange-red crystals, M.P. -117; absorp tion maximum at 423 m 13 :1950, with a shoulder at 445 mp. (in petroleum ether).

10 g. of 2,6,11,IS-tetramethyl-l7-(2,6,6-trimethyl lcyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,10,12,14,16 heptadecaheptaen-8- yn-l-oic acid methyl ester were suspended in ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 80-105") with 1.5 g. of lead poisoned palladium-calcium carbonate catalyst and 0.3 ml. of quinoline and agitated in a hydrogen atmosphere at 20 until about 650 ml. of hydrogen were absorbed. The hydrogenation product partially crystallized out. The product was separated by filtering ofi the catalyst and dissolving in methylene chloride. The methylene chloride solution was evaporated at room temperature under water vacuum. The residue was dissolved in methylene chloride and petroleum ether was added at 20. The product, 8,9-mono-cis-2,6,l1,15-tetramethyl-17- (2,6,6-trimethyl 1 cyclohexen-l-yl)-2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16- heptadecaoctaen-l-oic acid methyl ester, melted at 131- 133; absorption maxima at 324 and 443 mu; E =1040 and 1780, with a shoulder at 465 me (in petroleum ether).

7.4 g. of the cis-compound obtained above in 40 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 80-105 were refluxed for 5 hours in a carbon dioxide atmosphere and then cooled to 0. The product, all-trans-2,6,11,15-tetramethyl 17 (2,6,6 trimethyl 1 cyclohexen 1 yl)- 2,4,6,8,l0,12,14,16-heptadecaoctaen 1 oic acid methyl ester, was filtered off in the form of red crystals, .M.P. 136-137"; absorption maxima at 445 and 471 m E =2575 and 2160 (in petroleum ether).

1.1 g. of the ester obtained above was saponified by stirring in 300 ml. of ether with 300 ml. of 10% methanolic potassium hydroxide solution for .2 days at 20 in a nitrogen atmosphere. The mixture was-then diluted with water and extracted with ether. The ether solution was filtered and the precipitate was added to water, acidified with dilute hydrochloric acid and filtered. The product, all-trans-2,6,11,15-tetramethyl-17-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l-cyclohexen 1 yl) 2,4,6,8,10,12,l4, 16 heptadecaoctaen-l-oic acid, was recrystallized from benzene, M.P. 189-190"; absorption maximum at 448 my; E =2515, with a shoulder at 472 me (in petroleum ether).

Example 4 Dilute sodium hydroxide solution was added dropwise to 60 g. triphenyl-(a-carbomethoxyethyl)-phosphonium bromide in 1500 ml. of cold water with stirring until alkaline to phenolphthalein. The a-carbomethoxyethylidene-triphenylphosphorane was filtered oif, dried and recrystallizedfrom ethyl acetate-petroleum ether in the form of colorless needles, M.P. 152-153".

A solution of 19.6 g. 4,9,13-trimethyl-15-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l-cyclohexen 1 yl) 2,4,8,10,12,14 pentadecaheXaen-G-yn-I-al in 200 ml. of methylene chloride were added over a period of 5 minutes with stirring in a nitro gen atmosphere to 47 g. of on-carbomethoxy-ethylidenetriphenylphosphorane in 300 ml. of dry methylene chloride. methyl-l-cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,10,1.2,14,16 heptadecaheptaen-S-yn-l-oic acid methyl ester was worked up by the procedure described in Example 3 and obtained in the form of orange-red crystals.

The product, 2,6,11,15-tetramethyl-17-(2,6,6-tri- Example 12.4 g. of triphenylcarbomethoxymethyl-phosphonium bromide in 60 m1. of dry methylene chloride were treated with 14.1 ml. of 2 N sodium methylate in methanol solution according to the procedure in Example 1. g. of 2,6,1l,1S-tetramethyl-l7-(2,6,6-trimethyl 1 cyclohexenl-yl)-2,4,6,10,12,14,16-heptadecaheptaen-8-yn-l-al in 60 ml. of methylene chloride were added to the phosphorane obtained as described in Example 1 and the product was worked up according to the procedure in the same example. 4,8,13,17-tetramethyl-19-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,8,12,14,16,18 nonadecaoctaen-lO-yn- 1-oic acid methyl ester was obtained in the form of bronze colored crystals, M.P. 153-154; absorption maxima at 439 and 464 m E =21l0 and 1670 (in petroleum ether).

8 g. of 4,8,13,17-tetramethyl-19-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,8,12,14,16,18 nonadecaoctaen 10- yn-l-oic acid methyl ester suspended in 40 ml. of toluene and 100 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 80105) with 1 g. of lead poisoned palladium-calcium carbonate catalyst and 0.3 ml. of quinoline were agitated in a hydrogen atmosphere at 20 until about 500 ml. of hydrogen were absorbed. The solution was permitted to stand overnight at 0, then filtered. The product was separated from the catalyst by dissolving in methylene chloride, filtering and evaporating the solvent. The 10,11-monocis-4,8,13,17-tetramethyl 19 (2,6,6 trimethyl-l-cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16,18 nonadeeanonaen-loic acid methyl ester was recrystallized from methylene chloride-petroleum ether, M.P. 138-140; absorption maxima at 342 and 461 mp; E =1305 and 1805, with a shoulder at 481 m (in petroleum ether).

7 g. of the cits-compound obtained above in 40 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 80-105") were refluxed for 7 hours in a carbon dioxide atmosphere. 70 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 40-45") were added and the mixture was permitted to stand overnight at 0. The product, all-trans-4,8,13,17-tetramethyl 19 (2,6,6 trimethyl-l-cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,8,10,l2,14,l6,18 nonedecanonaen-l-oic acid methyl ester, was obtained after filtration and was recrystallized from petroleum ether (boiling range 80-105 in the form of red-violet crystals, M.P. 145-147; absorption maxima at 464 and 491 m E =2570 and 1975 (in petroleum ether).

1.5 g. of the ester obtained above was saponified by stirring in 700 ml. of ether and 350 ml. of a 10% methanolic potassium hydroxide solution for 2 days at 20 in a nitrogen atmosphere. The mixture was diluted with water and extracted with ether. The ether solution was filtered and the filter residue was added to water, acidified with dilute hydrochloric acid and filtered. The alltrans-4,8,13,17-tetramethyl-19-(2,6,6-trimethyl 1 cyclohexen-l-yl)-2,4,6,8,10,l2,14,16,1S-nQnadecanonaen-I oic acid was recrystallized from benzene, M.P. 190-191"; absorption maxima at 458 and 495 mu; E :2495 and 1990 (in petroleum ether).

Example 6 21.5 g. of triphenyl-(a-carbomethoxyethyl)-phosphonium bromide in 120 ml. of dry methylene chloride was treated first with 21 ml. of 2 N sodium methylate in methanol solution and then with 9.2 g. of 4,8,13,l7-tetra methyl-19-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-1-yl) 2,4,6,8,12, 14,16,1S-nonadecaoctaen-10-yn-1-al in 80 ml. of methylene chloride according to the procedure described in Example 3. The product was worked up also as described in that example. The product, 2,6,10,15,19-pcntamethyl- 21-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l-cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,8,10,14,16, 18,20-heneicosanonaen-12-yn-1oic acid methyl ester, was obtained in the form of copper colored crystals, M.P. 161-163; absorption maxima at 450 and 479 my; E 320 and 1820 (in petroleum ether).

9.5 g. of 2,6,10,15,19-pentamethyl-2l-(2,6,6-trimethyll-cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,8,10,l4,16,18,20 heneicosanonaen-lZ-yn-l-oic acid methyl ester suspended in ml. of toluene with 1 g. of lead poisoned palladium-calcium carbonate catalyst and 0.3 ml. of quinoline were agitated in a hydrogen atmosphere at 20 until about 500 ml. of hydrogen were absorbed. 200 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 40-45") were added and the mixture was permitted to stand for 24 hours in the refrigerator. The mixture was filtered and the product was separated from the catalyst by dissolving in methylene chloride, filtering and evaporating the solvent. The product, 12,13-monocis-2,6,10,l5,19-pentamcthyl-21-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1 cyclohexen-l-yl)-2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16,18,20 heneicosadecaen l-oic acid methyl ester, was recrystallized by dissolving in methylene chloride and adding petroleum ether in the form of gray-violet crystals, M.P. 133 absorption maxima at 361, 472 and 500 m 25 :1435, 1895 and 1430 (in petroleum ether).

7.5 g. of the cis-compound obtained above in 80 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 80-105") were refluxed overnight in a carbon dioxide atmosphere, then permitted to stand for 12 hours at 0. The solvent was filtered off and the solid product, all-trans-2,6,10,l5,l9- pentamethyl-Zl-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexene 1 yl)- 2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16,l8,20 hencicosadecaen 1 oic acid methyl ester recrystallized from petroleum ether (boiling range 80-105") in the form of violet crystals, M.P. -14l; absorption maxima at 476 and 505 mu; E =2630 and 1790, with a shoulder at 455 m (in petroleum ether).

1.5 g. of the ester obtained above was saponified by stirring in 700 ml. of ether and 350 ml. of a 10% meth anolic potassium hydroxide solution for 2 days at 20 in a nitrogen atmosphere. The product, all-trans-2,6,l0, 15,19-pentarnethyl-2l(2,6,6-trimethyl-1 cyclohexen lyl)-2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16,18,20-heneicosadecaen-l oic acid, was worked up according to the procedure described in Example 5 and recrystallized from benzene, M.P. 192- 193; absorption maxima at 479 and 507 m E =2500 and 1990 (in petroleum ether).

Example 7 7.7 g. of triphenylcarb0methoxymethyl-phosphonium bromide in 40 ml. of dry methylene chloride were treated first with 8.8 ml. of 2 N sodium methylate in methanol solution and then with 7.2 g. of 2,6,10,l5,19-pentamethyl- 21-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l-cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,8,10,14,16, 18,20-heneicosanonaen-12-yn-1-al in 100 ml. of methylene chloride by the procedure described in Example 1. The product was worked up also as described in the same example. The product, 4,8,12,17,21-pentamethyl-23-(2,6,6- trimethyl-l-cyclohexen-l yl) 2,4,6,8,10,l2,16,l8,20,22- tricosadecaen-14-yn-1-oic acid methyl ester, was obtained as copper colored crystals, M.P. 181-182"; absorption maxima at 463 and 492 m E =2470 and 1870 (in petroleum ether).

5.5 g. of the ester obtained above suspended in ml. of toluene with 1 g. of lead poisoned palladiumcalcium carbonate catalyst and 0.3 ml. of quinoline were agitated in a hydrogen atmosphere at 20, then worked up according to the procedure described in Example 5. The product, 14,15-mono-cis-4,8,12,17,21-pentamethyl- 23-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l-cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,8,10,l2,14, 16,18,2O,22-tricosaur1decaen-l-oic acid methyl ester, showed absorption maxima at 380, 487 and 516 m E =l175, 2100 and 1555. Upon recrystallization, the compound partially changed into the all-trans form. In order to complete the isomerization, the product was refluxed in 100 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 80- 105) for 6 hours in a carbon dioxide atmosphere, then worked up as described in Example 3. The a1l-trans-4,8, 12,17,21-pentamethyl-23-(2,6,6-trimethyl 1 cyclohexen- 1-yl)-2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16,18,20,22 tricosaundecaen loic acid methyl ester was obtained as dark violet crystals, M.P. -l66; absorption maxima at 488 9 and 520 m E =285O and 2240, with a shoulder at 468 m (in petroleum ether).

1.1 g. of the ester obtained above was saponified in 700 ml. of ether and 350 ml. of a 10% methanolic potassium hydroxide solution and worked up as described in Example 5. Alltrans-4,8,12,17,21-pentamethyl-23-(2,6, -trimethyl-l-cyclohexen-l-yl) 2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16,18,20, 22-tricosaundecaen-l-oic acid' was recrystallized from toluene in the form of a red, fine crystalline powder, M.P. 201-203"; absorption maxima at 492 and 520 mu; E =2485 and 1925 (in petroleum ether).

Example 8 10.7 g. of triphenyl-(a-carbomethoxyethy-l)-phosphonium bromide in 60 ml. of dry methylene chloride were first treated with 10.5 ml. of a 2 N solution of sodium methylate in methanol and then with 5 g. of 4,8,12, 17,21-pentamethyl-23-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1 cyclohexen 1- yl)-2,4,6,8,10,12,l6,18,20,22-tricosadecaen-14-yn-1 al in 60 ml. of methylene chloride and worked up according to the procedure of Example 3. The product, 2,6,10,14, 19,23-hexamethyl-2S-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l cyclohexen lyl)-2,4,6,8,10,12,14,18,20,22,24 pentacosaundecaen 16- yn-l-oic acid methyl ester, was recrystallized from toluone-petroleum ether, M.P. 187l88; absorption maxima at 473 and 502 mu; E =2720 and 2120, with a shoulder at 455 m (in petroleum ether).

2.8 g. of the ester obtained above were suspended in 100 ml. of toluene with 1.5 g. of lead poisoned palladiumcalcium carbonate catalyst and 0.3 ml. of quinoline and agitated in a hydrogen atmosphere at 20 until the absorption of hydrogen ceased. The catalyst was separated by filtration and the toluene was evaporated from the filtrate at room temperature under high vacuum. The crude 16,17-mono-cis-2,6,10,14,19,23-11exameth311-25-(2, 6,6 trimethyl 1 cyclohexen 1 yl) 2,4,63,10,12, 14,l6,18,20,2 2,24-pentacosadodecaen-1-oic acid methyl ester [absorption maxima at 392, 495 and 526 me with a shoulder at 474 my (in petroleum ether)] thus obtained was boiled overnight in 100 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 80105) in a carbon dioxide atmosphere, then permitted to stand at for 12 hours and filtered. The product, all-trans-2,6,10,14,19,23-hexamethyl 25 (2,6,6 trimethyl 1 cyclohexen 1 yl)- 2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16,18,20,22,24 pentacosadodecaen loic acid methyl ester was recrystallized from toluenepetroleum ether, M.P. 176-177"; absorption maxima at 497 and 529 Ill 1.; E =2950 and 2350, with a shoulder at 475 m (in petroleum ether).

1 g. or" the ester obtained above was saponified in 700 ml. of ether and 350 ml. of 10% methanolic potassium hydroxide solution and worked up according to the procedure of Example 5. The all-trans-2,6,l0,14,19,23-hexamethyl 25 (2,6,6 trimethyl 1 cyclohexen 1 yl)- 2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16,18,20,22,24 pcntacosadodecaen 1- oic acid was recrystallized from toluene in the form of a dark violet fine crystalline powder, M.P. 210-212"; absorption maximum at 507 me, with a shoulder at 535 my. (in petroleum ether).

Example 9 A solution of g. of 4,8,12,17,21-pentamethyl-23- (2,6,6 trimethyl 1 cyclohexen 1 yl) 2,4,6,8,10, 12,16,18,20,22-tricosadecaen-l4-yn-l-al in 100 ml. of methylene chloride was added over a period of 5 minutes with stirring to 9 g. of triphenyl-(u-carbomethoxyethylidene)-phosphorane in 50 ml. of dry methylene chloride. The mixture was worked up as described in Example 8 to obtain 2,6,10,l4,19,23-hexarnethyl-25-(2,6,6-trimeth yl 1 cyclohexen 1 yl) 2,4,6,8,10,12,14,18,20,22,24- pentacosaundecaen-l6-yn-1-oic acid methyl ester in the form of dark violet crystals.

Example In a vessel fitted with a calcium chloride tube 131 g.

' bromide; n ==1.5385.

of triphenylphosphine were dissolved in 600 ml. of dry benzene, while stirring. Within 30 minutes g. of 'ybromotiglie acid methyl ester were added dropwise. The temperature rose to 3035. A viscous by-product precipitated after a few minutes and the solution was separated by decantation. 3-carbomethoxy-2-buten-l-yl-triphenyl-phosphoniurn bromide began to crystallize and the solution was stirred over night at room temperature. Then the product was filtrated by suction, washed consecutively with benzene and with petroleum ether (boiling range 40-60). The phosphonium bromide was obtained as nearly colorless crystals which were dried in vacuo (10 mm. Hg).

36 g. of 3-carbomethoxy-2-buten-l-yl-triphenyl-phosphonium bromide in 150 ml. of dry methylene chloride were treated first with 37.5 ml. of a 2 N solution of sodium methylate in methanol, then with 22.3 g. of 2,7,11-trimethyl l3 (2,6,6 trimethyl 1 cyclohexen ,1 yl)- 2,6,8,l0,l2-tridecapentaen-4-yn-l-al in 150 ml. of methylene chloride and worked up according to the procedure described in Example 1. The product 2,6,11,15-tetramethyl 17 (2,6,6 trimethyl 1 cyclohexen 1 yl)- 2,4, 6,10,12,14,16-heptadecaheptaen-8-yn-l-oic acid methyl ester, was recrystallized from petroleum ether (boiling range 80-105) in the form of orange crystals and was identical with the compound obtained in Example 3.

Example 11 7.5 g. of lithium were dissolved in 1000 ml. of liquid ammonia and acetylene was bubbled through the solution. Within 30 minutes a solution of 140 g. of fl-acetylacrylic acid methyl ester in 500 ml. absolute diethyl ether was added dropwise. One half of the ammonia was allowed to evaporate and 70 g. of ammonium chloride were added. Then the solution was diluted with 250 ml. of absolute ether and hydrolysed with 400 ml. of a saturated ammonium chloride solution. The ether layer was dried with soditun sulfate and the solvent was driven oil. The sirupy residue was dissolved in 300 ml. of ethyl acetate and hydrogenated in the presence of 2 g. of Lind lar catalyst. There was obtained 1-carbomethoxy-3- methyl-3-hydroxy-1,-4-pentadiene of RP. 70-75/0.03 mm; n =1.4672. This compound was dissolved in absolute ethanol and treated with phosphorus tribromide to form S-carbomethoxy 3 methyl-2,4-pentadien-1-y1- 19.5 g. of this bromide was dissolved in ml. ofbenzene. While agitating until complete dissolution 24 g. of triphenyl phosphine were added. The mixture was allowed to stand overnight. Then, the crystals were collected by filtration, washed with benzene and with petroleum ether (boiling range 40-50) and dried in vacuo at 50. There was obtained 5 carbomethoxy 3 methyl 2,4 pentadien 1 yltriphenylphosphonium bromide.

10 g. of S-carbomethoxy-3-methyl-2,4-pentadien-l yltriphenyl-phosphonium bromide in 100 ml. of dry meth- Example 12 7.5 g. of lithium were dissolved in 1000 ml. of liquid ammonia and acetylene was bubbled through the solution. Within 30 minutes a solution of g. of B-acetylacrylic acid ethyl ester in 500 ml. absolute diethyl ether was added dropwise. One half of the ammonia was allowed to evaporate and 70 g. of ammonium chloride were added. Then the solution was diluted with 250 ml.

of absolute diethyl ether and hydrolysed with 400 ml. of a saturated ammonium chloride solution. The aqueous layer was extracted with diethyl ether, the ether extracts collected, washed with saturated ammonium chloride solution, dried with sodium sulfate, filtered and then conceutrated to dryness. There were obtained 135 g. of lcarbethoxy 3 methyl 1 pentaen 4 yn 3 01 of n =l.4710. 168 g. of the acetylenic carbinol were mixed with 168 ml. of dihydropyrane. 2 ml. of 84% phosphoric acid were added while stirring. The temperature of the solution was kept between 20 and 30 and stored overnight at room temperature. The mixture was extracted with 300 ml. of diethyl ether and the extract washed to neutral reaction with a mixture of sodium chloride and sodium bicarbonate solution, then dried with sodium sulfate, filtered, concentrated and distilled in a Vigreux-column. There were obtained 200 g. of fi-tetrahydropyranyl ether of B.P. 85-90/0.05 mm. 252 g. of this product were hydrogenated in 500 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 40-60") in the presence of 3 g. of Lindlar catalyst. There were obtained 250 g. of 1 carbethoxy 3 methyl 3 tetrahydropyranyloxy 1,4- pentadiene; n =1.4700. This product was poured into 2000 ml. of dry diethyl ether and a solution of 38 g. of lithium aluminum hydride in 500 ml. of diethyl ether was added dropwise at a temperature of 20 to --10. 500 ml. of water were added and the mixture dissolved in 1000 ml. of 18% aqueous acetic acid. The aqueous layer was extracted with 250 ml. of ether, the ether extract washed neutral with sodium bicarbonate solution, dried with sodium sulfate and the solvent evaporated. There were obtained 210 g. of 4-methyl-4-tetrahydropyranyloxy-Z,5- hexadien-l-ol; 11,5:14820; B.P. 8590/0.05 mm.

1000 g. of manganese dioxide were suspended in 4000 ml. of low boiling petroleum ether, 212 g. of the hexadienol were added and the mixture was allowed to react at room temperature for 4 hours. After filtration, drying with sodium sulfate and evaporating off the solvent there were obtained 180 g. of 4-methyl-4-tetrahydropyranyloxy-2,5-hexadien-1-al; 1z =l.4820; absorption maximum at 220 m E ==670 (in ethanol). 100 g. of the hexadienal, 500 ml. of absolute benzene and 170 g. of (a carbomethoxy ethylidene) triphenyl phosphorane were heated for 5 hours under reflux. The solvent was eliminated in vacuo and the residue dissolved in 500 ml. of methanol. Then, there were added 125 ml. of water and 1000 ml. of petroleum ether (boiling range 40-50) and the mixture was agitated. The aqueous methanolic layer was separated, the ether layer was washed consecutively with methanol and with water, dried with sodium sulfate and the petroleum ether evaporated. The product was a yellowish oil (;1 =l.5170), which was stirred in 430 ml. of ethanol. The temperature was kept under 5 and 250 ml. of 62% hydrobromic acid were added. After stirring for two hours at 0-5", the mixture was poured on 1000 ml. of ice water. The product was extracted with 500 ml. of petroleum ether, the extract washed with water to neutral reaction, dried with calcium chloride and the solvent evaporated in vacuo at 20-25". The product obtained (135 g.) was 3-methyl-7-carbomethoxy-2,4,6-octatrien-1-yl bromide; 22 9 15430; absorption maximum at 300 m E =950 (in petroleum ether). This product was dissolved in 600 ml. of benzene. 120 g. of triphenyl phosphine were added and the mixture was agitated until dissolution was complete. On storing overnight the product crystallized. The crystals /CH: C CH;

are collected by filtration under suction, washed with benzene and then with petroleum ether (boiling range 40-50"). After drying in vacuo at 50 there were obtained 138 g. of 7-carbomethoxy-3-methyl 2,4,o-octatrien- 1-yl-triphenyl-phosphonium bromide.

10 g. of 7-carbomethoxy-3-metl1yl-2,4,B-octatrien-lyl-triphenyl-phosphonium bromide in ml. of dry methylene chloride were treated first with. 9 ml. of a 2 N solution of sodium methylate in methanol, then with 4 g. of 2,6,1l,15-tetramethyl-17-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen 1 yl) 2,4,6,10,12,14,l6 heptadecaheptaen 8- yn-1al in 50 ml. of methylene chloride and worked up according to the procedure of Example 3. The product, 2,6,10,l4,l9,23 hexamethyl 25 (2,6,6 trimethyl lcyclohexen 1 yl) 2,4,6,8,10,12,l4,1S,20,22,24-pentacosaundecaen-l6-yn-l-oic acid methyl ester, was identical with the compound obtained in Example 8.

Example 13 10 g. of 5-carbomethoxy-3-methyl-2,4-pentadien-l-yltriphenyl-phosphonium bromide in 100 ml. of dry methylene chloride were treated first with 10 ml. of a 2 N solution of sodium methylate in methanol, then with 2 g. of all-trans-2,6,l1,1S-tetramethyl-17-(2,6,6-trimethyl-lcyclohexen 1 yl) 2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16 heptadecaoctaen-l-al in 40 ml. of methylene chloride and worked up according to the procedure of Example 3. The product obtained, all-trans-4,8,l2,17,2l-pentamethyl-23-(2,6,6- trimethyl l cyclohexen 1 yl) 2,4,6,8,10,l2,l4,16,l8, 20,22-tricosaundecaen-l-oic acid methyl ester, was identical with the product obtained in Example 7.

Example 14 4.5 g. of 7-carbomethoxy-3methyl-2,4,6-octatrien-l-yltriphenyl-phosphonium bromide in 50 ml. of dry methylene chloride was treated first with 4 ml. of a 2 N solution of sodium methylate in methanol and then with 2 g. of all-trans-2,6,l1,15-tetramethyl-l7-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l-cyclohexcn-l-yl)-2,4,6,8,10,12,14,l6-heptadecaoctaen-l-al in 30 m1. of methylene chloride and worked up according to the procedure of Example 3. The product obtained, all trans 2,6,10,14,19,23 hexamethyl 25 (2,6,6-trimethyl 1 cyclohexen 1 yl) 2,4,6,8,l0,12,14,16,l8, 20,22,24-pentacosadodecaen-l-oic acid methyl ester, was identical with the product of Example 8.

Example 15 7 carbethoxy 3 methyl 2,4,6 octatrien 1 yltriphenyl-phosphonium bromide was prepared according to the method given at the beginning of Example 12 but using 172 g. of (a-carbethoxyethylidene)-triphenyl-phosphorane instead of 170 g. of (e-carbomethoxyethylidenc)- triphenyl-phosphorane.

10 g. of 7-carbethoxy-3-methyl-2,4,6-octatrien-l-yl-triphenyl-phosphonium bromide in 100 ml. of dry methylene chloride were treated first with 9 ml. of a 2 N solution of sodium methylate in methanol, then with 6 g. of 2,7,11 trimethyl 13 (2,6,6 trimethyl 1 cyclohexen-l-yl)-2,6,8,10,12-tridecapentaen-4-yn-l-al in 50 ml. of methylene chloride and worked up according to the procedure of Example 3. The product, 2,6,10,15,19- pentamethyl 21 (2,6,6 trimethyl 1 cyclohexen- 1 yl) 2,4,6,8,10,14,16,l8,20 heneicosanonaen 12- yn-l-oic acid ethyl ester, melted at -166; absorption maxima at 450 and 478 mp; E =2275 and 1695.

We claim:

1. A compound having the formula 13 14 wherein R represents a member of the group consisting of sents an integer from to 1, with a member of the group hydrogen and aikyl, 0 represents an integer from O to 2, consisting of carbalkoxymethylene triarylphosphorane, aand [2 represents an integer from 0 to l, the sum of said GarbaikoXyethylidene-ilialylphosphmane, ya and b being from 1 to 2. buten-l-ylidene-triarylphosphorane, 5-carba1koXy-3-meth- 2 479,13 trimethyl (276,6 trims-313,1 1 t 1 5 yl-2,4-pentadien-l-ylidene triar ylphosphorane, 5-carbalkhex 4,63,),12mmpemadecaheptaemLoic acid oxy-l-methyl-2,4-hexad1en -1-yhdene triarylphosphorane methyl ester and 7-carbalkoXy-3-methy'l 2,4,6-octatrien-1-y1idene-tr1- aryl-phosphorane, and decomposing the adduct formed tetmmethyl 2 i 1 as the condensation product to the polyenecarboxylic acid cydohexen 1 Y 2,4,63,19423 hepta 10 ester product and triaryl-phosphine oxide.

Oc fl ficid-mfiihylsster- 17. A process which comprises condensing an alde- 4. 2,6,11,15 tetramethyl 17 (2,6,6 trimethyl 1- hyde having the formula CH3 CH3 CH3 CH3 CH3 CH: nlo o-0H=0Ho=oH- 3H=oH-o=cH-(3Eo-oH=o(OH=oHoH=(i)r.-(OH=0H)r-CHO H t; /ii-ona cyclohexen 1- 3 hepiadefiawherein 71 represents an integer from O to 3 and k repreoctaen-l-oic acidsents an integer from 0 to l, with a member of the 1 1 11 l gi 4 g group consisting of carbalkoxymethylene-triarylphosphoggggjfg; g g l Rona rane, a-carbalkoxyethylidene-triarylphosphorane, 3-carb- 5,6,10,15,19 pentamethyl 21 (276,6 trimethyL alkoxy- 2 buten-l-ylidene-triarylphosphorane, S-carbalk- 1 cyclohexen 1 Y1) 2,468,10,12,14161820 heneioxy-S-methy1-2,4-pentadien-l-ylidene -t.riarylphosphorane,

cosadecaen-l-oic acid methyl ester, S-carbalkoxy-l-methyl 2,4 hexadien-l-ylidene triaryl- 7. A compound having the formula phosphorane and 7-carba1koXy-3-methyl-2,4,6-octatrien-1- CH3 CH3 0 (3H3 (EH3 (EH3 (1H3 u Hzc (l%OH=OHC=CH--GH=OH-C=GH-CEC-GH=C-(CH=OH-CH=C)s(CH=CH)dCOR 1nd /COE wherein R represents a member of the group consisting ylidene-triarylphosphorane, and decomposing the adduct of hydrogen and alkyl, cfepfesems an integer from 0 t0 formed as the condensation product to the polyenecarn 61 represents an integer fmm O 1, the Sum of 531d boxylic acid ester product and triaryl-phosphine oxide.

c and d being from 1 to 3.

8. 4,9,13-trimethyl-1542,6,6 trimethyl-l-cyclohexen-lgilg ij acld math pentamethyl 23 (2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexen-1-yl)- 2,4,

t a 6th L17 2,6,6 Wtrimeth 6,8,10,12,16,18,20,22-tricosadecaen-14-yn-1-al to obtain Z I1 J 1 f ZEE Y 2,6,10,14,19,23-hexamethyl 25-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l-cyclo- Oic acid methyl ester hexen-l yl) 2,4,6,8,10,l2,14,18,20,22,24 pentacosaun- 10. 2,6,11,15 tetramethyl-17-(2,6,6-trimethyl-l-cyclodecaen-l6-yn-1-oic acid methyl ester, selectively catalytihexen-l-yl)-2,4,6,10,12,14,16-heptadecaheptaen-8-yn-1 oic cally hydrogenating the triple bond of the ester thus pro- 18. A process which comprises reacting a-carbomethoxy-ethylidene-triphenylphosphorane with 4,8,12,17,21-

acid. duced to a double bond and heating the reduced ester f y y at a temperature up to about reflux temperature. nonadecaoctaen'w'ynl' 19. A process which comprises reacting a-carbomethoic acid methyl ester.

12. pemamethy1 2 1d 6 trimethy1 1 cy oxyethylidene triphenylphosphorane with 4,8;12,17,21-

clohexen-l-yl) -2,4,6,8,10,14,16,18,20 heneicosanonaeng b g iZgQ 4" acid methyl ester. e-tricosadecaen-l4-yn-l-al to obtain 13 4,3,12,17,21 pentamethy1 23 (26,6 trimethy1 1 cy 2,6,10,l4,19,23-hexamethyl-25-(2,6,6 trimethyl-l-cycloclohexen-lyl) 2,4,6,8,10,12,16,18,20,22 tricosadecaenheXen-1 yl) 4 pentacosaum 14-yn-1-oic acid methyl ester. decaen-16-yn-1-oic acid methyl ester, selectively catalyti- 14. 2,6,10,l4,19,23-heXamethy1-25-'(2,6,6 trimethyl-l- Y g E--Y )i {i fil a ri l l pelltacosa' duced to a double bond, heating the reduced ester at a un ecaen- -yn- -o1c aci me y es er. 15. 2,6,10,14,19,23-hexamethyl 25-(2,6,6-tn'methyl-1- izi f g if E .3 2 t g i t g jj nf cyclohexen-l-yl)-2,4,6,8,l0,12,14,l8,20,22,24 pentacosa- 1 es er mm 1 obtain 2,6,l0,14,19,23 hexamethyl 25-(2,6,6-tr1methyl- 16. A process which comprises condensing an alde- -y -2,4,6)?10,12,14,16,18,20,22,24 P hyde having the formula tacosadodecaen-l-oic acid.

CH3 CH wherein 1 represents an integer from O to 3 and g repre- 75 (References on following page) cally hydrogenating the triple bond of the ester thus pro- 1 References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS Bindler et a1. May 15, 1956 Inhofien June 24, 1958 5 Kottler et a1. Jan. 6, 1959 Isler et a1. Mar. 24, 1959 FOREIGN PATENTS Germany Oct. 25, 1956 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION Patent No. 3,014,052 December 19, 1 961 Waldemar Guex et a1.

It is hereby certified that error appears in the above numberedpatent requiring correction and that the said Letters Patent should read as corrected below.

Column 1, formula IV, for that portion reading on CH on on C a read C column 2, line 17, for "triaryl phospfionium" read triaryl-phosphon.ium column 3, lines 10 and 11, for- 2 H read I C C-OR column 4, line 22, for "present" read presence lines 29 and 30, for "all-trazn s c'o mpounds wread all -trans compounds line 55, after "1958" insert a comma;

column 8, line 24, for "cyclohexene-"' read cy clohexencolumn 9, line 57, after "fine" insert a comma.

Signed and sealed this 24th day of July "1962.

(SE-AL) Attest:

ERNEST W. SWIDER! a f r I YJDAVIDL, LADD Attesting Officer 7 Commissioner "of Patents 

16. A PROCESS WHICH COMPRISES CONDENSING AN ALDEHYDE HAVING THE FORMULA 